Things to do in New London

Activities, attractions and tours

New London featuring a city and a bay or harbour
New London which includes heritage architecture
New London
New London showing a bay or harbour
New London showing heritage architecture and a river or creek

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Food, drink & nightlife
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Tours & day trips
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History & culture
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What to do in New London

Popular places to visit

Ocean Beach Park which includes a sandy beach

Ocean Beach Park

A day by the beach at this fantastic waterfront park is sure to please with its fun waterslides, large pool, landscaped foreshore and beautiful Atlantic Ocean views.

Ocean Beach Park
Fort Trumbull State Park featuring heritage architecture

Fort Trumbull State Park

Experience a hands-on history lesson when you explore the heritage waterfront and climb to the top of this 19th-century fort to look out over New London Harbor.

Fort Trumbull State Park

New London Ferry Dock

Explore the waterfront in New London with a trip to New London Ferry Dock. Experience the area's fascinating museums and great live music.

New London Ferry Dock

Connecticut College

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit Connecticut College during your trip to New London. Experience the area's fascinating museums and great live music.

Connecticut College

United States Coast Guard Academy

Explore the campus of United States Coast Guard Academy during your visit to New London. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its great live music.

United States Coast Guard Academy

Mitchell College

Explore the campus of Mitchell College as part of your travels around New London. Wander through the waterfront and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Mitchell College

Garde Arts Center

You can make plans for a show at Garde Arts Center on your trip to New London. Discover the area's fascinating museums and casinos.

Garde Arts Center

Connecticut College Arboretum

Enjoy an outing to Connecticut College Arboretum during your stay in New London. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the casinos in the area.

Connecticut College Arboretum

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital

If Lawrence + Memorial Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of New London.

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital
Groton featuring a river or creek and a bridge

Groton

Photo by Catherine Tierney

Waterford

Frequently asked questions

Is New London worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are loads of great things to do in New London. Remember to discover the area's blend of cool attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in New London?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. Then, explore other parts of New London for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in New London?
Don't go home without exploring Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration, rated the top tourist attraction in New London.
Is three days enough to stay in New London?
You can easily tick off leading sights like Ocean Beach Park, Hole-in-the-Wall Beach and McCook Point Beach with a three-day getaway in New London. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stay a while longer and venture to Mystic - New London.
Is New London a walkable city?
With leading attractions like Hempstead Houses in the area, New London is very much a place to explore on foot. Up for visiting some cool neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? Conning Towers Nautilus Park is around 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in New London with kids?
Planning what to do in New London with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or toddlers, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in New London for adults?
Mohegan Sun Arena and United States Coast Guard Academy are just two of the things to do in New London. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in New London?
In New London, Pleasure Beach is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in New London.